Hundreds of Chadians demonstrate for "departure of France"

An article from Africanews sheds light on growing anti-French sentiments in Chad, sparked by the recent decision to end a defence cooperation agreement with France. This move is emblematic of the broader trend of former French colonies reevaluating their relationships with the former colonial power. Caliber.Az presents an analysis of the piece for its readers.

The decision comes after months of political and social tension in Chad, following the death of President Idriss Deby in 2021 and the assumption of power by his son, Mahamat Deby Itno,

The protests in N'Djamena, Chad’s capital, reflect a significant public sentiment against France's military presence. The demonstrators, chanting slogans such as "Chad for us, France out," illustrate the growing resentment among Chadians, many of whom are eager to assert national sovereignty. The calls for the complete departure of French troops are a clear indication of the public’s frustration with the enduring foreign military presence in their country.

France has had a significant military presence in Chad for years, with approximately 1,000 troops stationed there. This relationship has been largely centered around combating Islamic extremism in the Sahel, with France playing a pivotal role in the regional security landscape through its Operation Barkhane and other counterterrorism efforts. However, the decision to end the defense agreement suggests a shift in Chad’s security strategy, as the government seeks to recalibrate its foreign policy and forge new partnerships based on national priorities rather than historical ties.

Chad's decision to end the military agreement with France comes amid a broader regional trend. Neighboring countries like Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger have already expelled French forces in recent years, furthering the perception that many in the Sahel are seeking alternatives to their former colonizer. These countries have increasingly turned toward Russia, with some nations welcoming the deployment of Russian mercenaries as a counterbalance to France’s presence. This regional shift signals a growing influence of Russia in the Sahel, highlighting the decline of French influence in the region.

The country’s political transition after the death of President Idriss Deby in 2021 is another important context for understanding the protests. The extension of the interim government’s mandate by two years, despite widespread opposition, has led to increased dissatisfaction among the Chadian populace. The protests against the French presence are not just about foreign military involvement but also about broader grievances regarding the political transition and the government’s legitimacy.

While Chad is ending its defense agreement with France, the government has made it clear that this decision does not signal a rejection of its historical ties with France. It aims to preserve relations with France in areas of mutual interest, despite the shift in defense priorities. This suggests a nuanced approach, where Chad seeks to recalibrate its international relationships, maintaining cooperation with France in other sectors while reducing its reliance on French military support.

In conclusion, the article reflects the growing desire for Chad to assert its sovereignty and recalibrate its foreign policy, particularly in regard to its historical relationship with France. The protests signify a broader regional shift in the Sahel, as former French colonies seek to redefine their strategic partnerships, potentially paving the way for stronger ties with non-Western powers, notably Russia. 

By Vafa Guliyeva